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Religion 101: What is Ramadan?
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AP Photo/Dan Balilty
Ramadan is the ninth month on the Islamic calendar. It is also the name of the most important Islamic holiday. This year Ramadan began on August 22nd and will be celebrated until September 20th or 21st. The beginning and ending of Islamic holidays are only estimated due to the nature of the Islamic calendar. Ramadan will be over when the waxing crescent moon following a new moon is visible in the sky. The ending of Ramadan can be different depending upon location. The local clerics determine when the holiday is officially over.
Muslims believe that the Koran was given to Mohammad during the last 10 days of Ramadan on Laylat-al-Qadr (Night of the Power.) The holiday, a festival of sharing one's wealth and giving to the poor and less fortunate, is marked by a month-long fast during daylight hours. The act of fasting reminds Muslims that the month is one where the celebrant cleanses his soul with spirituality and avoids worldly activities such as smoking and gossiping. They practice self-control, develop empathy for those less fortunate than themselves, read the Koran in its entirety, and give to charitable institutions. If a person observes the rules of Ramadan correctly, all past sins and transgressions will be forgiven. It is said that the heavenly gates are open and the gates of hell are closed during Ramadan. A Muslim who passes away during the holiday is said to be able to go directly to heavenly paradise.
The holiday of Ramadan ends on the 1st day of the month of Shawwal. The day is called Eid-ul-Fitr, which translates to "Festival of Breaking the Fast." Traditionally, food is given to the poor and people visit friends and relatives to celebrate the feast.
For more information:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramadan
http://islam.about.com/od/calendar/f/2009ramadan.htm
Islamic Society of North America
Photo credit: A Palestinian Muslim walks pas decorative wall hangings in the Old City of Jerusalem, on his way to attend the first Friday prayers of the holy month of Ramadan, Friday Aug. 28, 2009. Muslims throughout the world are celebrating the holy month of Ramadan, where observants fast from dawn till dusk.(AP Photo/Dan Balilty)
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